Image: Rayudu and Bangar clash over Rohit Sharma’s role as MI’s struggles fuel leadership debate / © Hindustan Times
After being the face of the Mumbai Indians for over a decade, Rohit Sharma’s new role as an Impact Sub in IPL 2025 has stirred controversy. During MI’s 12-run loss to RCB at Wankhede, Rohit was benched again, prompting ex-coach Sanjay Bangar to question the decision. He believed Rohit’s leadership on the field could help captain Hardik Pandya navigate pressure situations. However, Ambati Rayudu disagreed, stating Hardik must be left alone to lead his way, sparking a heated on-air exchange.
Rohit, 37, has struggled with the bat, managing scores of 0, 8, 13, and 17 so far. Mahela Jayawardene admitted MI’s powerplay struggles and backed Rohit to overcome his left-arm pace vulnerability, like the one that saw Yash Dayal dismiss him. Meanwhile, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma have stepped up, but MI’s campaign remains shaky. As debates grow around leadership and form, Rohit’s place in the XI is under intense scrutiny.